Clonidine is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure. It works by stimulating certain receptors in the brain, which helps to relax blood vessels and lower heart rate. This can lead to a decrease in blood pressure, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. In addition to hypertension, Clonidine is sometimes prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to manage withdrawal symptoms from opioids. It can be taken as a tablet or a patch applied to the skin, and like all medications, it may have side effects that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.